Pentagon Cites Expanded Operational Capabilities Following Terrorist Designation of Cartel of the Suns
Following President Donald Trump’s decision to designate the Cartel of the Suns, linked to Nicolás maduro, as a foreign terrorist institution, United States Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth stated the Pentagon now possesses a “wide range of new options” for potential action. Reuters reported on the Secretary’s comments.
Hegseth made the remarks during an interview with One America News, excerpts of which were released on Thursday. He reiterated the U.S.position that Maduro “is not a legitimately elected leader of Venezuela,” and reaffirmed accusations of drug trafficking, claims Maduro has consistently denied.
The designation was announced days prior by Secretary of State Marco Rubio,who explained that classifying the Cartel of the Suns as a terrorist group would make providing material support to the organization a federal crime for anyone operating within U.S. territory. The measure is scheduled to take effect on monday.
U.S.authorities allege the Cartel of the Suns maintains operational ties with the aragua Train,a Venezuelan criminal organization previously designated as a terrorist group by Washington.These accusations center on the joint participation of both groups in drug trafficking to the united states. The Trump administration maintains Maduro leads the cartel, an assertion he rejects.
When questioned about potential military action against assets associated with the Venezuelan leader, President Trump stated, “It allows us to do it, but we have not said that we are going to do it.” He also indicated openness to a possible diplomatic resolution with Maduro.
The designation coincides with an increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific, including a large-capacity aircraft carrier, warships, and F-35 aircraft. The United States has conducted at least 21 operations against vessels identified as involved in illegal trafficking, resulting in 83 deaths.
These operations have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who allege they constitute extrajudicial executions and raise concerns about potential violations of international law. International allies have also expressed concern regarding the military escalation, while Maduro accuses the U.S. of utilizing these operations as part of an effort to remove him from power.
Source: Reuters
